Court Grants N10bn Bail to Ex-Power Minister, Mamman

The Federal High Court in Abuja. has on Friday, granted bail to former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, who was previously remanded in prison custody over his alleged involvement in a N33 billion fraud.

Eko Hot Blog reports that Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the ruling, set Mamman’s bail at N10 billion, requiring two sureties in the same amount.

The sureties must own properties in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with a minimum valuation of N750 million.

They are required to provide a three-year tax clearance certificate and depose to an affidavit of means.

Also, Mamman and the sureties must submit certified copies of their bank statements along with recent passport photographs.

Furthermore, Mamman was ordered to surrender his international passport to the court registrar. The registrar is tasked with verifying all the documents before Mamman can be released from custody.

Alternatively, the sureties can provide a bank guarantee or bond for the sum of N10 billion. Until these conditions are met, Mamman will remain in prison custody.

The court adjourned the case to September 25 for a hearing.

EDITOR’S PICK

• Court Sends Ex-Minister, Saleh Mamman to Prison
• ₦14.77 Billion Spent On Presidential Air Fleet Maintenance In 11 Months
• Lagos: Police Inspector Killed In Confrontation With Suspected Naval Officers

Saleh Mamman, facing a 12-count charge, pleaded not guilty to the accusations brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

His defence team, led by Mr. Femi Ate, SAN, requested bail on liberal terms, citing Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 158 and 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

Mamman argued that he had been on administrative bail for over two years without violating any conditions set by the anti-graft agency. He assured the court of his availability for trial and his intention not to interfere with witnesses.

The EFCC, represented by A. O. Mohammed, did not oppose the bail request but asked the court to impose conditions ensuring Mamman’s attendance at trial.

Saleh Mamman served under former President Muhammadu Buhari and was arrested in 2021, approximately four months after being removed from office.

The EFCC alleges that Mamman conspired with ministry staff to divert about N22 billion intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO OF THE WEEK